[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] SIR,—One point in the
financial items given in your issue of Saturday I am concerned to notice, though I quite realize that to say what I want to say will being vials of wrath from many quarters upon me. MO for education is, on the face of it, a most creditable item, and is certainly a splendid investment. But is it necessary ? Is the education for which this is paid, given in a private or public school, better than that which is given in a " County School " If so, the matter is ended. But if not, why the heavy item, when the State will give it for nothing ? I know the answer. County School education is one thing, County School association and County School manners are— well, what they are. But are these manners what they are because of the absence of the tone which the children from better homes would impart if they . attended them ? If so, is it not somewhat to be deplored that the professional classes so boycott them ? Is it quite certain that the children from the better homes would suffer in this matter, and would utterly fail to have a beneficial effect in raising the standard in the County School ? Could it not be fairly hoped that they would be able to bring the effect of their home culture in these things into operation upon their schoolfellows ? These points I suggest for consideration. I know that they arc. unpopular, but I hope not upon that account quite outside attention.— I am, Sir, &c.,
F. J. PAPE.
Cothermonth.
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